De Jongh out for six weeks

Team Quick-Step announced that after further tests undergone this morning at the Herentals Clinic, rider Steven De Jongh has been diagnosed with a bicep femoris muscle torn at the height of the tuber ischii, as consequence of a brutal fall during the Tour of Qatar.

De Jongh, who missed who was unable to defend his Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne win from 2008 this past Sunday, is scheduled for surgery on Friday March 6th. The procedure will stitch together his torn muscle.

De Jongh will be off the bike for at least 6 weeks.

"This is a tough blow for Steven, and for the entire team - said team manager Patrick Lefevere - We’ve lost a great rider for the cobblestone classics and a professional mentor for the less experienced riders in the team. However we’re sure that Steven will be working to get better and get back to giving his all to the team as soon as possible."

"It’s hard times for me," explained De Jongh. "At the beginning I was hoping the injury wasn’t so serious. The only thing left for me to do is to keep the faith and do whatever it takes to recuperate 100%. Either way I’m going to try to contribute by staying in close contact with the team during the most important races of the season."

De Jongh is a strong rider in the Spring Classics and will be missed by teammates Tom Boonen and Sylvan Chavanel.